Inspired

My 9-year-old daughter, Emma, was home from school for two days in a row. She watched the movie E.T for the third time yesterday and decided to write a novel called "E. T. Returns." She took printer paper, folded it in half, stapled a binding, and started writing her book. She was still writing in bed last night, got up to get a drink of water, and said to me, "Mommy, it SO hard to stop writing a novel."
I remember feeling that way. I glimpse that raw inspiration from time to time.
Paying attention to my daughter's words has helped me realize that I am really burned out. This summer, I am going to try to rest and (maybe) write the things that feed me. I'll be getting ready for a lot of action in the fall—pitching articles and working on the publicity for my next book. I want to feel the way Emma does--I have and know what it's like to be on fire about your work. There's nothing more fulfilling.

Springdale Water Gardens—a Gem in the Valley

I love this place. To me, seeing a water lily float on the water, with its petals opening, lifting to the sky is like seeing a piece of magic. It's so tranquil.
If you are a gardener or water gardener, chances are you've heard of Springdale Water Gardens—they are a national company sending out their water garden products all over the world. And they are right here in the Valley. I was lucky enough to go on a field trip with my daughter's first grade class to visit this amazing place. I thought I'd share some of the pictures I snapped.